When changing the color of brick, block, mortar, or concrete, you may assume that any stain can do the job. After all, brick and concrete are both porous, mineral-based masonry materials. But masonry stain and concrete stain are not the same as they are formulated differently. Understanding the differences is important before choosing a stain for your project.
Not Every Product Labeled “Stain” Is the Same
The word “stain” can make products sound interchangeable when they are not. Wood stain, concrete stain, masonry stain, and other penetrating colorants can have completely different chemistries and performance characteristics. When evaluating a product for staining masonry, don't stop at the word “stain” on the label. Look at what the product was actually formulated to do.
Masonry Stains are Formulated for Brick, Block, and Mortar
Brick, block, mortar, and concrete all have unique characteristics that can be quite different including absorption rates, textures, and densities. A product developed specifically for masonry takes those characteristics into consideration. Some staining products may be marketed for use on multiple surfaces, including both masonry and concrete, but you should not assume that a concrete stain is appropriate for brick simply because both materials are porous.
Stayntech® is a surface penetrating masonry stain formulated to specifically soak into brick or block while allowing the texture of the substrate to remain visible. As masonry is highly porous, the stain is engineered to penetrate surface pores for a natural-looking, long-lasting finish. The result is a breathable and permanent color transformation that is guaranteed to never bubble, chip, or peel. That distinction is especially important on exterior masonry. Brick walls are designed to manage and release moisture. Water vapor needs to be able to move through the masonry.
A properly formulated breathable masonry stain can change the color of the surface while allowing that natural vapor transmission to continue. Whether the goal is to modernize dated brick, coordinate multiple masonry colors, lighten or darken an existing façade, or completely transform the appearance of a building, using a product formulated specifically for masonry makes a significant difference..
Concrete Stains are Formulated for Concrete Surfaces
Concrete is typically made from cement, aggregates, and water. Its surface characteristics, porosity, finishing methods, and chemical composition are different than those of brick and block. Concrete stains are specially formulated for denser surfaces and often include additives to help them adhere to smoother materials. Some concrete stains rely on chemical reactions with components in the concrete to create color variation. Others use pigments or dyes to add color to the surface.
The desired final appearance is often different than that of a masonry stain. That means a coloring system developed for a concrete floor, patio, or driveway isn't automatically the right choice for a brick wall. Decorative concrete staining may intentionally create mottling or translucent color variation. With architectural brick, the goal is frequently to achieve a more controlled color transformation while preserving the natural appearance of masonry. A stain formulated primarily for horizontal concrete surfaces may not provide the same appearance, absorption, breathability, or long-term performance you want from a product specifically designed for vertical brick.
Masonry Stain vs. Concrete Stain: The Bottom Line
Masonry stain and concrete stain may sound interchangeable, but they are formulated for very different applications. Masonry stains are formulated specifically for porous brick, block, and mortar. Concrete stains are typically developed around the characteristics and decorative needs of concrete surfaces. Always check a stain manufacturer’s approved substrates and application instructions to ensure you are using the correct product for your specific project.
To purchase Stayntech® masonry stain, or to request a commercial masonry staining estimate, please visit stayntech.com.